Agencies | Washington:
US President Donald Trump has warned that Iran is running out of time amid the ongoing conflict, while ruling out the use of nuclear weapons and asserting that Washington has already inflicted significant damage through conventional military operations.
“The clock is ticking,” Trump said, signalling increasing pressure on Tehran. He added that while the United States is not in a hurry to conclude the conflict, Iran faces mounting challenges. “We have all the time in the world, but they don’t,” he remarked.
Rules Out Nuclear Option
Speaking at the White House, Trump dismissed any possibility of deploying nuclear weapons. “Why would I use a nuclear weapon? We’ve already, in a very conventional way, caused massive damage without it,” he said. He reiterated that nuclear weapons should never be used, stressing that US objectives are being achieved through conventional means.
Military Build-Up Intensifies
The remarks come as the United States strengthens its military presence in the Middle East, with the deployment of the USS George H.W. Bush, joining other carriers already stationed in the region.
The conflict has increasingly centred around the Strait of Hormuz, a key global shipping corridor. Iran has imposed restrictions on maritime movement in response to US and Israeli actions, while Washington has tightened its naval blockade targeting Iranian vessels and oil shipments.
Aggressive Naval Posture
Trump had earlier authorised the US Navy to take strong action against any Iranian attempts to disrupt shipping in the strait, including orders to engage and neutralise vessels suspected of laying naval mines.
The developments underscore rising tensions in the region, with both sides maintaining a hardline stance as the conflict continues.
